Many people reach for acid-reducing drugs when heartburn or reflux appears, assuming the problem is too much stomach acid. In reality, excess acid is rarely the root cause. Most reflux and gastritis symptoms begin when the protective mucosal lining of the stomach or esophagus becomes thin, inflamed, or slow to repair.
Acid itself is essential for digestion and defense—it breaks down proteins, absorbs nutrients, and prevents infection. The real issue is often a weakened barrier that allows normal acid levels to irritate exposed tissue.
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) supports this barrier. Instead of suppressing acid, it strengthens the mucous layer and promotes healing of the digestive lining. For many people, this makes it a logical alternative or companion approach to acid-blocking medications.
